Rick Wagoner Pimps Saab's Future From Beyond The Grave

Edward Niedermeyer
by Edward Niedermeyer

Got schadenfreude? This video represents GM’s pathos-laden attempt at discovering Saab’s relevance, circa 2003. But this is more than just the insincere flogging of a dead brand walking, it’s also more evidence for why GM continually struggles with perception gap. Videos like this, touting turnarounds and viability, have been undermining GM’s credibility for decades. At this point perception gap isn’t even the right term: try “credibility deficit” instead. Meanwhile, die-hard Saab fans are planning on converging on the RenCen in hopes of swaying the masters of Saab’s fate to be merciful to their beloved brand. Don’t hold your breath though: as this video proves, GM has years of cynicism under its belt when it comes to its Swedish division.

Edward Niedermeyer
Edward Niedermeyer

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 4 comments
  • FreedMike FreedMike on Dec 31, 2009

    Well, I suppose he could have said something like "Saab sucks, and I can't wait until it dies," but I'm not sure how that would have bridged the credibility gap... The mistake we're making here is confusing typical corporate BS with real communications. It makes for rich source material for blogs, but little else.

  • HerrKaLeun HerrKaLeun on Dec 31, 2009

    we could use any CEO's statement from 5 years ago and laugh about it now.... As much as I hate red ink rick... what was he supposed to say back then? Every CEO should speak well of his products. Obviously good CEOs should make sure the products are actually good (that's the part he failed in :-)

  • Davekaybsc Davekaybsc on Dec 31, 2009

    So.. The "GM opportunity" means that we stick your badge on a Chevy Trailblazer and call it a day?

  • Micanichi Micanichi on Jan 01, 2010

    Anyone with a part in their hair like that cannot be trusted.

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